Itching in the intimate area after sex: causes and treatment

Romantic moments that bring joy can sometimes be disrupted by a sudden problem - severe itching after sex in the genital area. This problem is common and can bother both men and women.

Itching may appear immediately after sexual intercourse or occur several hours or days later. In the latter case, overthrow is not always associated with sexual contact. It bothers women in the labia area, in the vagina, while men complain mainly of irritation that appears on the head of the penis. This phenomenon cannot in any way be called normal, which means it is imperative to find out why the burning sensation occurs in intimate places.

Basic information

Unfortunately, many women experience a burning sensation in the external or internal genital area after sex.
However, not every girl turns to a specialist with this problem. Having noticed such symptoms, many representatives of the fair sex try to eliminate it on their own, resorting to douching, the use of baths and other procedures. However, experts say that a burning sensation after sexual intercourse may indicate the presence of serious diseases, untimely treatment of which often leads to infertility or other problems in the reproductive system. Therefore, if such symptoms develop, you should immediately rush to see a gynecologist. After all, only a specialist can establish the cause of this condition, as well as prescribe effective treatment.

Causes of itching in women

Vaginal itching and burning after sexual intercourse can be caused by a number of diseases. Because vaginal itching and burning after sexual intercourse are not normal, these symptoms indicate vaginal irritation or disease. Vaginal itching and burning can be caused by various diseases or infections.

All possible reasons can be divided into three groups:

• Gynecological diseases
• Diseases not related to gynecology
• Other external and internal factors

Burning and itching in the vagina are symptoms of almost any infectious process in the genital area. Diseases caused by opportunistic microorganisms - their presence in the vaginal microflora normally does not cause discomfort, but when provoking factors occur, they multiply, which leads to inflammation, these include:

1. Candidiasis of the vaginal mucosa. This inflammation is caused by the yeast fungus Candida (Candida albicans or Monilia), it is also called thrush, yeast colpitis. In addition to severe itching and burning, it is characterized by thick, profuse, curdled, white discharge
2. Allergy to sperm. Sometimes married women who have only a single partner experience vaginal itching after unprotected intercourse due to an allergic reaction to the husband's sperm. This happens quite rarely and is manifested by burning, redness, itching of the external genitalia after sexual intercourse. To clarify this cause of itching, you should take special allergy tests for the husband’s sperm. An allergy to sperm, as well as incompatibility of the microflora of husband and wife, can be a serious problem for a married couple, since it causes discomfort in the woman, suspicion of infidelity, and sexually transmitted diseases in each other. However, the irritating component can be the sperm protein itself, as well as possible food products and medications that the beloved man takes.
3. Bacterial vaginitis, colpitis, vulvovaginitis. When opportunistic bacteria actively grow in the vaginal microflora, most often gardnerella, in addition to unpleasant itching, may cause discharge with a fishy odor. Vaginitis, colpitis caused by E. coli or coccus infections - these infections often occur as mixed infections, that is, candidiasis, gardnerellosis, and other infections develop. Before menstruation, discomfort usually intensifies.

Sexual infections

There are also a lot of hidden sexually transmitted infections, which may not show any symptoms for a long time, but when the immune system is weakened, with an exacerbation of concomitant chronic diseases or previous viral infections, they manifest themselves as minor discomfort, burning, itching. This is possible even if questionable sexual contact took place a long time ago, and unpleasant symptoms arose much later.

The Russian Ministry of Health identifies 5 main sexually transmitted diseases, many of which are common in some southern resort countries: gonorrhea, syphilis, lymphogranuloma venereum, chancroid, donovanosis.

As a complication of sexually transmitted diseases, the following may occur:

• Cervicitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the cervix, either due to a sexually transmitted infection or occurring after an injury.
• Endometritis is an inflammation of the uterus; in these diseases, unpleasant sensations in the external genitalia occur due to the release of exudate, which has an irritating effect on the walls of the vagina.
• Urethritis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the urethra, and in addition to itching, burning and pain occur when urinating.

Itching after sex is a symptom of an STD.

Don’t be alarmed if a symptom appears immediately after sex; a sexually transmitted disease cannot develop quickly. If a couple of days have passed since the contact, then this may already be an alarming signal. So, what signs indicate that a visit to the doctor is an absolute necessity:

• intimate area itches
• small pimples or ulcers appear, the skin and mucous membranes become red (may spread to the anus),
• are bothered by unusual-looking discharge, often with a pronounced repulsive odor,
• the lymph nodes are enlarged and can be clearly felt in the groin area,
• urination has become frequent, the process is accompanied by pain,
• painful sensations in the lower abdomen (a symptom typical for women),
• sexual intercourse causes discomfort.

It should be borne in mind that some diseases may appear much later after infection than after 2-3 days. For example, syphilis or chlamydia often occur in a latent form, i.e. these symptoms will not manifest themselves acutely and vividly. In this case, the disease will immediately become chronic, and the person will feel that after sex itches slightly in the area of ​​the urethra at the time of urination, but no more. This happens with chronic chlamydia. With syphilis, the patient may notice that rashes have appeared on the genitals, but do not attach any importance to this, because they are not particularly bothersome. After 9-10 weeks, new symptoms appear that can no longer be ignored:

• hair loss, both on the scalp and on the eyebrows, legs, arms,
• the small rash disappears, but a larger one appears in its place, and it has a characteristic localization (neck, arms) and seems to surround these parts of the body, for which it is called the ring of Venus,
• Hoarseness and abnormal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract are observed.

Associated symptoms

As a rule, burning after sexual intercourse is not the only symptom that worries a woman. Very often it is accompanied by other signs. Their combination helps the specialist to establish the true cause of the development of unpleasant sensations. So, along with burning and itching in the vulva area, some patients are bothered by the following conditions:

• frequent urination;
• discomfort observed in the lower abdomen;
• unnatural discharge;
• redness and swelling in the genital area;
• constant itching;
• pain that occurs directly during sexual intercourse;
• unpleasant smell.

All of these symptoms indicate that some chronic process is developing in the vagina. The cause of exacerbation of this condition may be:

• hypothermia;
• imbalance of microbes;
• decreased immunity;
• hormonal disorders;
• taking antibacterial agents for a long time;
• prolonged depression.

Causes of itching in men

If a man's penis itches after sexual intercourse, this may be due to a number of reasons. Some of them are easy to solve on your own, while in other cases you will need to consult a specialist.

Unpleasant burning and itching in the area of ​​the head of the penis can occur for the following reasons:

1. improper hygiene;
2. mechanical damage;
3. candidiasis;
4. trichomoniasis;
5. gonorrhea;
6. balanoposthitis;
7. allergy.

Improper penile hygiene can lead to irritation and itching. Residues of urine and lubricant accumulate under the preputial sac, which provide a favorable environment for the proliferation of pathogenic flora. It is important to wash yourself every day using special products.

It is better to avoid wearing synthetic underwear, which can cause irritation. Due to very active sexual intercourse, a frenulum tear may occur. This causes not only a burning sensation, but also severe pain.

We suggest you read: Why does air belching appear after eating?

The most common disease that causes discomfort in the genital area is thrush. Both women and men can become infected with candidiasis. Moreover, in the latter, the pathology occurs with the same severe symptoms.

In addition, signs of candidiasis infection include hyperemia (redness of the skin) of the head and foreskin, the formation of a white film (plaque), and the appearance of pathological discharge that has an unpleasant odor. It is important to visit a doctor when symptoms of thrush appear and begin treatment. Otherwise, the fungal infection will spread throughout the body and provoke an inflammatory process in the genitourinary organs.

Another disease that is often diagnosed in men who complain of a burning sensation after sexual intercourse is trichomoniasis. The first signs of trichomoniasis are similar to the symptoms of thrush. However, if the disease is not treated, more serious symptoms may occur. Patients also experience swelling of the tissues of the foreskin, redness of the glans, and the release of pathological exudate.

Burning after sexual intercourse, itching and soreness in the area of ​​the head of the penis, scrotum and foreskin may indicate infection with gonorrhea, a dangerous sexually transmitted disease. This pathology is characterized by periods of remission and exacerbation, when the symptoms either disappear or become quite pronounced.

Even if the signs of gonorrhea have ceased to bother you, men who have not undergone appropriate treatment are still carriers of the infectious agent and can infect their partner. The disease requires mandatory treatment, as it can lead to the development of infertility.

It is not difficult to suspect the presence of such a pathology. The affected area turns red, swells, and itches. Men suffer from constant pain. If balanoposthitis is not treated, the inflamed tissue will begin to scar and this will lead to narrowing of the foreskin, poor opening of the head and other complications.

Itching and burning can be caused by allergies. The body may react to latex condoms, chemical lubricants, or poor-quality hygiene products. Modern underwear is often made from synthetic materials. This is often the cause of allergies.

Neglected, previously uncured diseases - prostatitis, urethritis, cystitis, orchitis and others, when exacerbated, are accompanied by unpleasant painful sensations, itching and burning, localized in the groin area.

Various factors can provoke an exacerbation of pathologies of the genitourinary organs, such as weakened immunity, hypothermia, alcohol intoxication, and viral diseases.

Burning of the head of the penis after sexual intercourse in men can occur for the same reasons as in women. Most often, this phenomenon is allergic in nature, which goes away after changing contraceptives or taking special medications.

In addition, the development of such symptoms can occur due to drying out of the head of the penis, as well as violent and frequent sexual intercourse. The possibility of a fungal nature of the discomfort cannot be ruled out.

Treatment and prevention

If the cause of unpleasant itching turns out to be improper hygiene, this area should be given more attention. High-quality cosmetics will help eliminate the risk of developing allergies. If, despite all efforts to get rid of the itching, the problem remains, you should consult a doctor. The doctor will determine the type of infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Although topical medications are most often prescribed, some problems require a course of antibiotic therapy. But even after recovery, you need to adhere to a few simple rules:

• wash thoroughly every day;
• wear underwear made from natural materials;
• do not overcool;
• avoid stress.

Whatever the cause of discomfort in the vaginal area or glans penis, it is very important to quickly find out the cause. This will help get rid of itching and burning and protect your health from possible pathologies.

Diagnostics

If a burning sensation appears in the vagina after sexual intercourse, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist as soon as possible. Diagnostic measures will primarily be aimed at identifying the causative agent of the suspected infection:

• During a gynecological examination of the external and internal genital organs, the doctor may see manifestations of the inflammatory process of the vulva, vagina, or suspect the presence of dysbiosis of the natural vaginal flora.
• An important point during the examination is the patient’s subjective feeling of pain if the vaginal mucosa is involved in the pathological process;
• During the examination, a smear is taken from the vagina and cervix for microflora for bacterial and microscopic examination;
• Other research methods may be prescribed to determine pathogenic microorganisms - ELISA, PCR;

Rules of conduct before visiting a gynecologist:

1. a couple of days before visiting a doctor, you should not use any suppositories or sprays, antibacterial agents, have sexual intercourse, or douche;
2. do not urinate a couple of hours before going to the doctor;
3. On the evening before the visit, you need to wash your external genitalia with warm water and regular (not antibacterial!) soap.

If a woman associates the appearance of a burning sensation in the vagina with the use of lubricants, condoms or contraceptives, then she should consult an allergist. If the infectious nature of the disease cannot be confirmed and the level of female sex hormones is within normal limits, then a consultation with a psychotherapist may be necessary to diagnose problems in the psycho-emotional sphere.

Treatment of itching of the labia

Treatment of annoying itching of the labia, accompanied by other symptoms, should be carried out under the supervision of medical professionals - gynecologists, dermatologists, venereologists. The most popular ointments include Clotrimazole, Boromenthol, Nezulin, Epigen, Gistan.

Which doctor should I contact?

If you have these symptoms, you need to visit a gynecologist who:

• examine a woman on a gynecological chair;
• assess the condition and appearance of the external labia, vaginal walls and cervix;
• will take smears from the vagina for bacteriological examination.

After receiving the results of laboratory tests, the patient can be referred for treatment to a venereologist (if sexually transmitted infections are detected) or an infectious disease specialist or dermatologist.

Ointment

All ointments that are used against itching of the labia are divided into 4 categories:

Type of ointment	How does it work
Antihistamines	relieve swelling, redness and the main symptom, give a quick effect - relief occurs within 15 minutes
Corticosteroids	eliminate not only itching, but also the inflammatory process, can be used only locally and for a short period of time, because they can lead to atrophy of the mucous membranes and dermis
Local anesthetics	contains lidocaine, novocaine, relieves itching and cools the irritated surface of the labia, has a short-term effect
Calcineurin inhibitors	their action is similar to corticosteroids, but they have no side effects and can be used for long-term therapy

The most popular ointments that will quickly eliminate itching are:

• Clotrimazole . Applied to the labia 3 times a day, it helps with fungal infections and suppresses the growth of pathogenic microflora. The manipulation is carried out only after washing and completely drying the intimate area, the cream is distributed in a thin layer over the itching area. The duration of therapy is 5-7 days, but unpleasant symptoms disappear after 2-3 days.
• Boromenthol . It is not a medicinal drug; doctors offer it as a distraction: it relieves inflammation, irritation, cools the labia and relieves obsessive itching. Can be used for 10-15 days until complete recovery from the underlying disease.
• Nezulin . Excellent for itching during menopause, menopause, when atrophic processes are particularly progressive. Apply to a pre-cleaned intimate area 2-3 times a day, absorb quickly and can be used for a long time.
• Epigen. This is an intimate hygiene gel that perfectly helps solve the problem of itching after sexual intercourse, when there is irritation, allergies to lubricants and contraceptives (condoms). Used only before or after sexual intercourse.
• Gistan . An antihistamine ointment that quickly cools and relieves itching, redness, and irritation. Can be used for any type of allergy, during the period of identification of the irritant, to alleviate the condition.

Clotrimazole

Epigenes

Boromenthol

Nezulin

Gistan
Doctors recommend using these remedies for no longer than 5 days in a row. If no positive dynamics are observed during this period, or if the itching returns after stopping the drug, then you need to undergo an examination for an accurate diagnosis.

Drugs

Most often, doctors prescribe the following medications:

• Clarithromycin, Macropen, Zitrolide - effective against chlamydia;
• Furazolidone, Famciclovir - prescribed for sexually transmitted infections;
• Livarol, Fluconazole - destroy fungal colonies, help with thrush;
• Acyclovir - included in therapy for herpes;
• Cefoxitin, Metronidazole, Doxycycline - treat inflammatory processes of various origins in the vagina;
• Suprastin, Diazolin, Tavegil, Aleron, Loratadine - prescribed for allergies.

All medications must be prescribed by a doctor because they must counteract a specific disease. Systemic agents quickly enter the bloodstream and can negatively affect the functionality of the digestive system.

We recommend reading about trichomonas vaginitis. From the article you will learn about the causes of the development of pathology in women, symptoms of the disease, methods of diagnosis and treatment.

And here is more information about the treatment of gardnerellosis.

Itching of the labia can be caused by serious pathologies or be a consequence of allergies, but it is never an independent disease. Doctors insist on the need for a full examination and only after that can treatment be carried out.

Folk remedies

While you determine the cause, folk remedies will help relieve itching and irritation of the genitals. Folk remedies can be as effective as medications. Here are some home remedies you can try to relieve discomfort caused by irritation and itching of your private parts.

Add two tablespoons of natural apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water. Wash yourself with this water twice a day for two or three days. Apple cider vinegar makes the vaginal microflora acidic, in which bacteria and fungi cannot grow.

Vaginal itching can be especially problematic at night, disrupting sleep, causing lethargy and fatigue in the morning. Use ice cubes or a cold compress to prevent itching at night. Salt can also be a good remedy to relieve itching and irritation of the genitals.

Garlic also has strong antibacterial properties that can relieve itching symptoms very quickly. Whatever the cause of genital itching, garlic can be used to relieve it. Grind in a blender or grate two or three cloves of garlic. Tie the grated garlic in gauze or a bandage and insert it into the vagina. The smell may not be very pleasant, but the effect is worth it.

Probiotics inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the body and their use to combat such bacteria is nothing new. Natural yogurt contains bacteria that can inhibit the growth of bad bacteria and stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria. To treat vaginal itching, drink a glass of natural yogurt daily.

We suggest you read about Chest pain. What could this be and should I go to the doctor?

Yogurt can be used directly on the vaginal area. For this purpose, you can use tampons soaked in natural yogurt. The tampon is inserted into the vagina for several hours.

Antibacterial herbal talc or homeopathic talc is very gentle but takes longer to cure. Apply talcum powder to the labia to kill and prevent bacterial growth. In addition, talc can be applied to areas that sweat the most.

Rosemary decoction can be used for washing. Brew rosemary and let steep for 15 minutes. Cool to a comfortable temperature and use for washing.

Itchy labia: what to do at home without going to the doctor

Here's what you can do at home if your labia are itchy:

• Adjust your diet . It is necessary to exclude hyperallergenic foods from the menu - citrus fruits (including lemons), chocolate and coffee, strawberries, hot seasonings and spices. Perhaps you need to remove sweets and carbonated drinks from your diet - you need to act by elimination and waiting. That is, one, presumably allergenic, product is removed from the menu, and health status is monitored for 2-3 days.

• Adjust your drinking regime . Itching of the labia can be caused by insufficient moisture of the skin and mucous membranes, so you need to drink 2-3 liters of clean water a day. You can do this every 30-60 minutes in an amount of 200-300 ml.
• Change your underwear . All synthetics are replaced by cotton fabrics; in extreme cases, you need to wear lace panties with a gusset (it is sewn onto the crotch area) made of natural fabric.
• Review cosmetics and detergents, washing powders, conditioners . Itching can be caused by a simple allergy to intimate hygiene gels, shampoos and other household chemical products.
• Change sanitary pads and give up tampons . If the labia are itchy (especially during menstruation), then you need to choose pads without fragrances and multi-colored pictures - these chemical components can be an irritant on an individual basis.

It is necessary to strengthen personal hygiene - wash yourself at least 2 times a day, wash your genitals with a decoction of chamomile, sage, and calendula flowers. But this is only possible if there is no allergy to these plants.

How to get rid of itching on the labia using traditional methods

You can get rid of itching on the labia with various decoctions and infusions of medicinal plants:

• A decoction of chamomile, calendula, and sage . These herbs can be used as an independent remedy or form a collection (taken in equal proportions).

You need to pour 1 tablespoon of plant material with warm water in a volume of 250-300 ml and boil in a water bath for 5-10 minutes, cool and strain. In warm form, the product is used for washing and lotions - a napkin is moistened in the broth and applied to the cleansed labia for 5 minutes, repeat the manipulations 3-5 times.

This decoction will help even if the cause of the itching is a developing pathology. Herbs have anti-inflammatory and sedative properties and will quickly relieve severe symptoms and alleviate a woman’s condition.

• Infusion of string, thyme, coltsfoot, St. John's wort. Plants can also be components of the collection (taken in equal quantities) or used separately. An infusion is prepared from 2 tablespoons of herbal raw materials and 200 ml of hot water - not boiling water, because this will destroy all the beneficial properties of the herbs.

All ingredients are placed in a thermos and infused for 8-10 hours. Then the concentrated infusion is diluted with warm water in a 1:1 ratio and used for washing and bathing.

The infusion helps especially well with atrophic processes in the external genitalia and irritation. Baths are strictly contraindicated for diagnosed inflammatory diseases of a gynecological and urological nature, pustular rashes and heavy vaginal discharge.

• A complex decoction of flax grass, mistletoe, shepherd's purse, willow and oak bark, calendula and chamomile flowers, nettle and comfrey . All ingredients are taken in equal proportions and mixed. Then you need to take 2 tablespoons of the mixture, add hot water and simmer in a water bath (without boiling) for 20 minutes. Then the product is cooled and filtered.

A decoction is used for douching once a day, first you need to exclude the development of allergies to the components present.

Douching should not be carried out in case of purulent, foul-smelling discharge, pain in the lower abdomen against the background of itching of the labia. Manipulation is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Watch this video about the treatment of vaginal candidiasis using traditional methods:

Elimination of allergies

Allergies can be identified not only by eliminating possible irritants, but also by using antihistamines - Tavegil, Zodak, Suprastin, Diazolin, Ceterizin (these are non-hormonal drugs, are considered relatively safe and can be used for all types of allergies). You need to take 1 tablet 2-3 times a day for 5 days.

Typically, a decrease in the severity of genital itching is observed already on days 2-3; after day 5, you need to wait 2-4 days without taking pills and monitor the dynamics of the condition - the resumption of discomfort indicates the need to visit a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

Suprastin

Ceterizine

Tavegil Zodak

Diazolin

Such measures are considered inappropriate if there is additionally heavy vaginal discharge, extensive rashes, and an unpleasant odor.

For fungal infection

Treatment of thrush (candidiasis) should only be done under the supervision of a doctor and with the use of antifungal drugs. But folk remedies can also alleviate a woman’s condition and quickly eliminate discomfort. The most effective for this disease will be:

• Washing with baking soda solution. You need to dissolve 1 tablespoon of the product in 1 liter of hot water, cool the solution until warm and wash it 1-2 times a day. Baking soda creates an alkaline environment, which is destructive for pathogenic microorganisms, including those of fungal origin.

It is strictly forbidden to increase the concentration of the solution - the alkaline balance in the vagina may be disrupted, but reducing these indicators will not give positive results. The procedure cannot be performed during pregnancy or with inflammatory diseases of the internal genital organs.

• Douching with whey . Official medicine is quite skeptical about this method, but you can perform 5 procedures. Once a day you need to heat up the whey (not store-bought, but homemade, from the market) and syringe. It is impossible to increase the number of manipulations, because this may not provoke relief of symptoms, but another exacerbation of thrush.

The whey should be absolutely transparent, without any admixture of cottage cheese fibers; it can be pre-strained through a sieve or gauze. Manipulation is prohibited during pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections with characteristic discharge.

For inflammatory processes of the vulva, vagina, trichomonas colpitis

Such diseases should be treated only with specific medications and under the supervision of doctors. But traditional methods can speed up the healing process:

• Onion tampons . You need to prepare juice from one white onion, moisten a sterile tampon in it and insert it into the vagina for at least 12 hours (it is better to do this at night). In the morning, after taking out the tampon, be sure to wash yourself with the addition of a few drops of essential oils - this will get rid of the intrusive aroma.

This folk remedy cannot be used for any damage to the skin and mucous membranes, because this will cause severe pain and additional irritation. The duration of such therapy is 5 days.

• Douching and tampons with propolis . For the procedure, an alcohol tincture of a bee product is used, which is diluted in a ratio of 1:1 for a tampon and 1:5 for douching. In the first case, a sterile tampon is soaked in the product and inserted into the vagina for 6-8 hours, douching is carried out 1-2 times a day.

The duration of therapy is 7 days; there can be a severe allergy to propolis, so it must be excluded before starting treatment.

Diseases and pathologies of internal organs

Very often, itching and burning after sexual intercourse is caused by a fungus. This disease is called candidiasis or thrush. It manifests itself not only as unpleasant sensations, but also as cheesy white discharge, as well as enlargement of the labia and pain during urination.

It should be noted that the fungus is often transmitted to a sexual partner during sex. Therefore, doctors recommend giving up love relationships until candidiasis is completely cured.

When the uterus or its appendages, which include the tubes and ovaries, become inflamed, the volume of vaginal discharge increases. As a result, its pathology develops. Abnormal discharge irritates the mucous membrane, which causes burning or itching during or after sexual intercourse.

Also, unpleasant sensations can arise due to the occurrence of a disease such as trichomoniasis. This is an infectious disease of the human genitourinary system, the causative agent of which is Trichomonas vaginalis.

Prevention

Prevention of the occurrence and recurrence (re-occurrence) of itching after sex:

• A balanced diet enriched with fermented milk products and pectins (plant fiber). Maintaining rhythmic bowel function.
• Refrain from self-prescribing antibiotics and antibacterial agents. When prescribing antibiotics, always discuss with your doctor the possibility of solving the current situation using alternative methods: homeopathic remedies, herbal medicine, physiotherapy.
• Hygienic care should be carried out only for the external genitalia with water and baby soap without the use of antibacterial intimate hygiene products.
• Do not use vaginal tampons and sanitary pads if you experience at least one allergic reaction to them.
• Limit wearing synthetic underwear. Preference should be given to underwear made of cotton and linen fabrics.
• In hot weather, avoid wearing clothes that are tight and tight around the buttocks and thighs (trousers, leggings, etc.).
• When intimate with a partner who has not been tested for sexually transmitted infections, barrier contraception (condom) is preferable. The condom must be worn before intromission (insertion) of the penis.
• Contraception with a condom is also desirable for oral and anal-genital sex. A man’s intelligence and social status (education, profession, income level, etc.) do not guarantee a healthy oral cavity and genital area.
• Mandatory full examination of the permanent sexual partner and the intended (future) spouse by a urologist before marriage and first sexual intercourse without a condom.
• If sexual intercourse is unprotected with a condom, vaginal suppository (suppository), or cream, it is necessary to conduct a test for sexually transmitted infections.

Smears are collected for testing for chlamydia, ureaplasma, and mycoplasma using the PCR method 28 days after sexual intercourse. Blood tests for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV; AIDS) and syphilis are carried out after 3 and 6 months.

Collecting smears from the cervical canal and cervix for testing for human papillomavirus using PCR is carried out after 6-9 months.

Itchy labia: main causes

If the labia are itchy, then this may be a symptom of some disease or a consequence of wearing poor-quality underwear - the cause must be established in order to understand the principle of solving the problem.

How it itches	Causes
Unobtrusive itching, without discharge or swelling, controlled, disturbing during the daytime	It is worth considering the possibility of irritation that may occur while wearing synthetic underwear with rough lace or improperly made seams.
Severe itching, accompanied by burning and swelling of the labia	May indicate trichomoniasis or a banal allergy to sanitary pads.
Redness, swelling with itching	It is possible that an allergy to detergents develops - shower gels, special creams/gels for intimate hygiene, shampoos.
Itching with whitish, curd-like discharge without intense odor	Signs of thrush (vaginal candidiasis), you need to get tested and undergo treatment.
The labia are itchy, there is greenish, brown or yellow discharge, there is a stench	These are symptoms of infectious diseases, purulent inflammatory processes.
Itching at night	This may be a sign of scabies, worms and other parasites.
Labia itch after sex	Possibly irritation from friction, allergies to lubricants, sperm.

It is quite difficult to find out the cause of itching of the labia on your own, so this problem should only be solved in tandem with a doctor. The gynecologist will examine the woman, identify redness or swelling, take smears from the vagina, and refer the patient for a full examination. Based on the results, a treatment regimen will be drawn up.

We recommend reading about why thrush often occurs during menstruation. From the article you will learn about the causes of thrush, the characteristics of menstruation in pathology, and treatment options.

And here is more information about the causes of itching before menstruation.

Itching of the labia - what is it?

Itching of the labia is a symptom of the development of a pathological condition that can pose a real danger to women's health or be only a temporary phenomenon. Itching can be obsessive and “single”, present during the day/night or around the clock, accompanied by redness of the external genitalia, swelling, and discharge of various types.

Itching is never an independent “disease”; it is only a sign of some kind of disorder. Most often they lead to it:

• wearing tight, synthetic underwear;
• sexual infections;
• irregular hygiene;
• use of low-quality sanitary pads;
• irritation after using tampons, sex, using inappropriate detergents;
• fungal diseases;
• Vaginal dysbacteriosis (disturbance of microflora).

In some cases, the labia begin to itch due to severe stress or hormonal changes.

Irritation of the labia

Irritation of the labia can occur for a variety of reasons:

• wearing synthetic underwear with rough lace or seams;
• use of sanitary pads with fragrances or rough surfaces;
• improper personal hygiene;
• use of detergents with chemical components.

Irritation is not only itching, but also the appearance of small rashes, redness of the external genitalia, and a slight burning sensation.

Burning of the labia

If, along with the itching, there is also a burning sensation of the labia, then it is worth considering the following reasons for this condition:

• allergies to any external irritants - sanitary pads, detergents, synthetic underwear;
• thrush is a fungal disease that can be sexually transmitted;
• wounds on the labia - for example, abrasions after rough, aggressive sex.

Burning of the labia can be present with itching of any origin - a woman injures the upper layer of the epidermis when scratching, urine and vaginal mucus get on these wounds, which provokes additional discomfort.

Itching and redness of the labia

Redness of the labia with itching can be a banal consequence of the main problem - a woman involuntarily scratches the sensitive surface, which leads to a change in its color. But this may also be evidence of development:

• allergies;
• genital herpes;
• thrush (vaginal candidiasis).

In the latter case, vaginal discharge is necessarily present - at first it is transparent, but abundant, then it becomes whitish and, as the pathology develops, it acquires a cheesy character.

Redness indicates an inflammatory process, this could be vulvitis, vaginitis or vulvovaginitis.

Watch this video about the symptoms and treatment of genital herpes:

Itching of the small lips without discharge

If you are concerned about itching of the labia minora, but it is present without discharge or other additional symptoms, then it is worth considering the option of exposure to an unfavorable external factor; most often they help solve the problem:

• changing underwear – preference should be given to things made from natural materials;
• choosing plain sanitary pads without fragrances;
• refusal of detergents for intimate hygiene;
• refusal of tampons;
• using condoms and intimate lubricants without dyes or fragrances.

Sanitary pads without fragrances
Such itching can be a reaction of the body to the consumption of hyperallergenic foods - citrus fruits, chocolate, seafood, strawberries and others. It is enough to adjust your diet for the discomfort to disappear.

Small lips are swollen and itchy, everything is red

If the labia minora are swollen, itchy and everything is red, then you first need to rule out allergies - this will take 3-5 days, during which all possible provoking factors are eliminated. Additionally, you can take antihistamines such as Tavegil, Suprastin, 1 tablet 2 times a day. If no positive dynamics are observed within the specified time, then you should seek qualified medical help:

• undergo examination by a gynecologist;
• take tests - vaginal smear, blood;
• obtain a doctor's opinion and prescription for therapy.

Degrees of vaginal cleanliness
Often, a combination of swelling, itching and redness indicates the presence of a sexually transmitted infection - for example, trichomoniasis or chlamydia. They occur in a chronic form with frequent exacerbations and can lead to the development of infertility.

Itchy clitoris and labia

If both the labia and the clitoris are itchy, the reasons for this may be:

• improper intimate hygiene - insufficient or excessive, incorrect direction of the water stream and hands when washing (correctly - from the clitoris to the anus);
• douching too often;
• age-related changes that lead to excessive dryness of the skin, mucous membranes, atrophy of the external genitalia;
• excessive amounts of female hormones - often occurs during pregnancy, during menopause.

Vaginal atrophy
Severe itching can also be caused by general pathologies - diabetes, hepatitis (liver inflammation).

Itching of the lips and white discharge

Often, against the background of itching of the labia minora, there is a white discharge and this, in most cases, indicates the development of thrush. This disease is of fungal origin, associated with the reproduction and spread of candida fungi, which are constantly present in the vaginal microflora and are classified as opportunistic. This disease can be caused by:

• stress, nervous shock;
• decreased overall immune system;
• sexually transmitted infections, even if they were treated on time.

Thrush is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, but it must be treated. Doctors prescribe antifungal drugs, some of which give positive results even after a single use - for example, Flucomycil tablets. To achieve a complete recovery, you need to know the following nuances:

• Both the woman and her partner need to be treated for thrush;
• During therapy, sexual intercourse is prohibited;
• Traditional methods do not solve the problem.

It is important to complete the full course of therapy - after 1-2 days of treatment, the itching of the labia and white discharge disappear, but this is not a reason to cancel treatment, because in this case another exacerbation and transformation of the pathology into a chronic form is inevitable.

Watch this video about the causes of genital itching in women:

Labia itch after sex

The presence of itching after sex, when the labia itch for several hours after intimacy, may mean:

• allergies to condoms - they are made of latex, which is a hyperallergenic material;
• allergy to sperm is a common occurrence and is associated with a violation of the vaginal microflora and an inadequate response of the immune system to a “foreign substance”;
• irritation due to the use of intimate lubricants and fragrances.

If, even after excluding provoking factors, the itching continues to bother you, then you need to undergo an examination to identify sexually transmitted infections - chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, genital herpes and others.

Often itching is a consequence of too active sexual intercourse, when irritation and redness occur from the friction of the bodies.

Labia hurt and itch

The labia can itch and hurt at the same time, often these symptoms are complemented by swelling of the external genitalia - this combination of symptoms is inherent in allergies and irritations. When scratching, additional irritation occurs and possible injury to sensitive skin and mucous membranes - this provokes a rush of blood to the labia. Together, this leads to irritation of the nerve endings, which causes pain.

If these symptoms are supplemented by small rashes, then you need to seek qualified medical help. This may indicate the development of a herpes infection.

Scabies on the labia

Scabies on the labia is a rare phenomenon that has its own individual characteristics:

• there is itching;
• no discharge, redness or swelling;
• Scabies worsens at night.

The disease is classified as dermatological, sexually transmitted and must be properly treated. You must first undergo an examination with a doctor, who will clarify the diagnosis by identifying scabies and scratching characteristic of the pathology.

Itching with scabies is allergic in nature; in this case, the irritant is mite excrement and the parasites themselves. Even after a full recovery, this unpleasant symptom may persist for several days; it can be relieved with antihistamines.

Itching and dryness of the labia

Itching and dryness of the labia are signs of atrophic processes in them. They may be related to the woman's age.

It is known that after 50 years, irreversible age-related changes begin in the body: the level of hyaluronic acid decreases, and the independent production of collagen and elastin stops. The result is severe dryness of the labia and vulva, accompanied by itching. Discomfort increases during and after sexual intercourse; peeling of the external genitalia and the formation of a thin crust may additionally appear.

The problem is solved with local preparations in the form of lubricants, gels and antiallergic tablets - Suprastin, Tavegil, Diazolin are taken in a course of 2 weeks every 3 months.

Labia itch during menstruation

During menstruation, the labia itch due to severe irritation, which can be caused by:

• sanitary pads with fragrances, too rough, convex surface;
• tampons - they themselves are a powerful irritant;
• too infrequent personal hygiene procedures.

Often a similar problem is present in overweight women - obesity provokes profuse sweating, which creates a greenhouse effect in the perineum.

The child's labia are itchy

A child’s labia most often itch due to exposure to external irritants:

• if the problem occurs in infants, then the girl’s personal hygiene needs to be strengthened, refuse or change the brand of diapers, and use anti-inflammatory creams for treatment;
• older children should be checked for infection - it can be carried into the genitals from the anus if washed incorrectly;
• they are also tested for the presence of parasites in the feces - pinworms often cause itching;
• it is important to exclude thrush;
• It is worth checking your child's blood sugar levels.

The main cause of itching of the labia in a child, in most cases, is an allergy to food, underwear material and detergents, washing powders, and conditioners. The problem can be solved by eliminating the provoking factor from the girl’s life and taking antihistamines.

Labia itch at night

At night, exacerbation of itching is always present, but if the labia itches exclusively during this period of the day, then it is worth excluding:

• allergies to detergents - soap, shampoo, gel;
• irritation from washing powder or fabric softener;
• inadequate reaction of the body to the material from which pajamas or a nightgown, bed linen are made.

Intimate hygiene products
During the process of eliminating possible irritating factors, you need to take antihistamines. If no positive dynamics are observed within 3-5 days, then it is worth undergoing an examination and ruling out the possibility of sexually transmitted infections or the presence of parasites in the intestines (worms).

Itching of the labia and anus

Simultaneous itching of the anus and labia can be present not only with infection with sexually transmitted diseases, but also with the presence of worms. Such a combined symptom is a reason to consult a doctor, because it will be necessary to identify or refute the presence of parasites in the digestive system, diagnose or rule out sexually transmitted infections.

Enterobiasis in adults

If we are talking about a non-pathological cause of itching of the labia and anus, then most likely it is an allergy - to fabric softener, synthetic materials, detergents or washing powders.

Allergic reactions

A burning sensation after sexual intercourse may be an allergic reaction that occurs due to the use of lubricants or components included in their composition. The same effect can occur due to the use of condoms. After all, it is no secret to anyone that such contraceptives are made from latex, which causes allergies not only in women, but also in men.

If the protective product turns out to be of poor quality, then after using it a person may experience severe itching and burning. By the way, this phenomenon can be caused not only by latex, but also by the substances with which it was processed. Getting rid of such symptoms is quite easy. To do this, you should only choose another method of contraception. You can find out about it from your treating doctor.

It should also be noted that burning after sexual intercourse very often occurs during the use of other contraceptives. Spermicidal gels or creams, caps and coils cause similar reactions. If, after installing or using them, significant discomfort occurs during sex, you should urgently contact your gynecologist.

Treatment

If the cause of itching and burning is errors in hygiene measures, then it is necessary to carry out genital hygiene more often. Do not have sex immediately after the depilation procedure. If synthetic lubricants cause allergies, then it is necessary to use hypoallergenic products.

Treatment of the infectious cause of itching and burning that occurs after sexual intercourse should be carried out by sexual partners together, as re-infection may occur.

Thrush, or candidiasis, requires antifungal medications. If the disease has just begun and there are no serious complications, then they are limited to prescribing local remedies. There are a large number of these drugs with different trade names, but the basic ones are:

• clotrimazole;
• miconazole;
• imidazole;
• ketoconazole

Fluconazole derivatives, which are administered orally once, are widely used. Chronic thrush can be treated only with the use of systemic agents and a long course of treatment. Preparations containing Nystatin are somewhat outdated, but they are also sometimes prescribed, as they fight a wide range of microorganisms.

Trichomoniasis is treated with Metronidazole. Women are also prescribed suppositories containing antifungal drugs. Treatment is carried out for both partners.

Bacterial vaginosis should be treated with Metronidazole (Trichopol) in tablet form. It is not worth treating a man, since the development of the disease involves the vaginal environment. In the event that this drug is not tolerated, they resort to backup treatment options:

1. Gel Metronidazole. It does not combat complications of vaginosis as effectively; the effect is due to local suppression of pathogenic microflora of the vagina.
2. Clindamycin cream. Tolerability is good, but the effect of treatment does not affect possible complications of the disease.
3. Clindamycin tablets for systemic effects on the body when there is trichopolum intolerance.

Menopausal hormonal changes are treated with hormone replacement therapy. Prescription of drugs is carried out only after testing for hormone levels in the blood. To moisturize the vagina, you can use lubricants that will prevent burning after intercourse.

Why does itching occur after intercourse?

Irritation and burning in the “bikini area” after intimate intimacy with a man causes concern for many women: they do not always understand what causes the unpleasant symptoms. Itching deprives a girl of all pleasure and persists after sexual intercourse, leaving unpleasant symptoms: burning and the desire to scratch the skin sometimes arise at the most inopportune moment.

It is very difficult to get rid of unpleasant sensations, especially if unnecessary attention is undesirable. To solve the problem of itching in an intimate place, you need to know what the cause of irritation on the labia is. A gynecologist will help a woman with this. Itching in the “bikini area” after sex may be accompanied by other symptoms:

• small ulcers and erosions;
• cracks and dry skin;
• bleeding;
• redness of the vulva;
• swelling of the skin;
• increasing feeling of discomfort;
• copious discharge of an unpleasant odor.

Itching and other symptoms indicate a malfunction in the body. To get rid of unpleasant sensations, a girl needs to consult a specialist and follow his instructions.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with the fact that my husband found a generic version of Viagra

Causes of itching

If the labia itch after sex, this indicates the presence of pathology in the body. Itching can be a consequence of poor care of the intimate area and wearing uncomfortable synthetic underwear.

An allergic reaction to condom material is the most common cause of itchy labia. As you know, most condoms are made from latex, which contains substances that cause skin irritation. In addition to condoms, other contraceptive drugs, intimate lubricants, and fragrances cause irritation.

A partner's sperm can cause an allergic reaction in a girl. This is explained by the content of substances in the sperm of men that negatively affect the microflora of the female body. This type of allergy is easy to diagnose. To prevent itching from bothering a woman, she should protect herself during sex and not allow sperm to enter the vagina.

Itching of the labia also occurs with infectious diseases. Among the most common causes of irritation after sex is candidiasis. However, there are other diseases of the reproductive system that provoke itching and indicate an infectious process.

Candidiasis occurs due to the yeast-like fungus Candida, which causes inflammation when immunity is low. The presence of fungus in the body of a healthy person is normal.

The disease develops due to taking antibiotics or hormonal imbalance. During sexual intercourse, friction of the mucous membrane occurs, which causes burning and pain in the vagina.

Itching can also occur when using hygiene products. Increased itching is observed soon after menstruation.

Burning and itching in the intimate area can be caused by depletion of the vaginal lining. The disease is observed mainly in women from 40 to 60 years of age. In addition to these symptoms, atrophy is accompanied by dryness and stitching sensations. Signs of the disease appear during sexual intercourse.

Irritation after sex is observed due to urogenital fistulas. Pain also occurs when going to the toilet. Fistulas form after surgical intervention in the reproductive system, cesarean section and difficult natural childbirth.

In an intimate place, it may begin to itch not immediately after sex, but after a certain time. As a rule, itching is caused by so-called hidden infections that affect the body after several hours or days.

Common hidden infections of the reproductive system:

• trichomoniasis - characterized by light-colored discharge with foam and a fishy odor;
• venereal disorders - most often itching is provoked by syphilis, genital herpes, gonorrhea and lymphogranuloma venereum;
• ureaplasmosis and mycoplasmosis;
• genital warts;
• chlamydia - in most cases becomes chronic.

Itching after sexual intercourse may not be caused by gynecological diseases. Disturbances in the functioning of the thyroid gland, liver and kidneys affect not only the genitals, but also other structures of the body. Itching in the vagina often occurs due to diseases of the organs located near the anal canal.

The vaginal skin begins to itch due to inaccurate depilation.

Sharp razor blades often leave wounds and cracks on the skin, causing pain after sexual contact with a partner, especially aggressive sex.

For treatment, a woman should use special ointments that have healing properties. It is necessary to abstain from sexual intercourse for some time.

Causes irritation in the “bikini area” and an uncomfortable position. In this case, it is worth changing the position.

If itching occurs after sex, a woman should visit a specialist for diagnosis. Treatment of the disorder depends on the reasons that caused itching in the intimate area. Diagnosis of the disease consists of the following procedures:

1. flora smear;
2. bacteriological culture to detect infection;
3. cytological examination;
4. general blood test, urine test;
5. feces on worm eggs;
6. analysis to identify allergens.

In addition, the doctor must examine the vagina using speculum. To collect additional data, a woman may need to undergo an ultrasound and colposcopy.

The results of the examination will help identify the cause of itching of the labia and prescribe the correct treatment. Itching caused by infectious diseases is treated with antibacterial or antifungal drugs. Therapy is recommended not only for the woman, but also for her sexual partner. During treatment, sexual contact should be avoided.

If the itching is due to an allergic reaction to the condom material, the doctor will select safe contraceptives for the patient. In addition, the specialist will give recommendations on which personal hygiene products are best for a woman during treatment. It is noted that products containing aloe juice have a beneficial effect on the body.

To quickly restore affected areas of the skin, products with a moisturizing and regenerating effect are suitable. Thanks to their properties, the drugs eliminate the source of inflammation and reduce its negative effects, combat itching and burning in the vagina. Using moisturizers will help prevent the development of labia diseases.

It is advisable to introduce fermented milk products into the diet: kefir, yogurt, acidophilus.

After sex, itching in the intimate area: non-pathological causes

Let's first consider the causes of itching during and after sex that are not related to pathology. The first thing you can suspect is that the mucous membrane of the genital organs and the skin are simply irritated from rough mechanical impact during sexual intercourse. Of course, this can be a concern for both men and women.

There are cases when such a phenomenon is an allergy, no matter how strange it may sound, to sex. In some cases it is psychogenic in nature, i.e. manifests itself when one of the sexual partners does not want intimacy, is afraid, is too embarrassed, etc.

Often people begin to worry about this problem due to incessant stress, which invariably leads to a decrease in immunity. Another type of allergic reaction is true when a person has intolerance to the intimate secretion of his sexual partner.

When taking antibiotics, as well as a number of other factors, for example, smoking and drinking alcohol, the likelihood of imbalance of the vaginal microflora increases many times over. Pathogenic bacteria begin to prevail over beneficial ones. In this case, the pathology may not yet develop, but the sensations are already changing; itching appears after sex, and the lubricant that should be released during sexual intercourse is completely absent.

Often everything that touches the genitals for some time provokes itching and irritation. This could be intimate lubricant, synthetic underwear, inappropriate soap or gel, condoms or other types of barrier contraception.